The Coming of the Railroad

Compiled by Gary E. Theall

The following excerpts from the Abbeville Meridional chronicle the
long, arduous and frequently frustrating struggle of the townspeople of
Abbeville to secure a railroad connection. After overcoming innumerable
obstacles, the first train finally pulled up to the depot on Thursday, December
15, 1892, amidst a grand welcome and
celebration. This was a pivotal
event in the history of Abbeville, for before that time the town was virtually
isolated from the outside world, the roads being almost impassable and the only
other means of travel—by steamboat—was limited to one or two boats per week.
Daily railroad service not only allowed the townspeople to travel to other parts
of the country conveniently, it also enabled the planters to transport their
abundant crops to market quickly and cheaply, and the merchants to receive their
stocks promptly. The completion of the railroad more than any other single
event brought Abbeville into the mainstream of commerce.

The Meridional 5-4-1878:

Mr. Editor:—I saw in one of the last issues of the Courier du Teche a lengthy
article touching an important question for this parish: a Rail Road between New
Iberia and Abbeville. The gentlemen, who speak of this project, seem to have an
accurate idea of the probable cost of such a railway.

They went as far as to tell us exact amount, which, according to their
estimate is $120,000. It is a big sum, but, after all, a mere trifle taking in
consideration the good it would do to this part of the country.

We are certain that Vermilion would furnish more then [sic] half to
hereself [sic], should enterprising men take it in their heads to put the
thing en train; and en train we would soon travel over our
beautiful country[;] how cheering it would be!

Iberia is stirring up; Vermilion can not stay behind, she is the most
interested. We are aware that several land owners of this parish are ready to
subscribe thousands of acres of land and take for same shares in the
contemplated Abbeville & New Iberia Rail Road.

The Meridional 3-27-1880:

Trains on Morgans La. and Texas Rail Road now run through to Vermilionville
commencing last Saturday [March 20, 1880], and the Vermilionville folks are
supremely happy.

The Meridional 2-12-1881:

Rail Road to New Iberia.

It must be a self-evident fact to every thoughtful person that Abbeville only
requires a little better transportation and commercial facilities to become an
important business place. Upon the completion of the Louisiana, Navigation
Company's canal, she will enjoy continual and quick water communication with New
Orleans. The rail road from Houston to New Orleans, passing as it does within a
short distance of the town, places us within a few hours ride of the great
thoroughfare of commerce and travel. Business and the interest of the community
alike demand that we should make an effort to come in closer contact with the
outside world. In this age of steam, rail communication has ever proven the most
feasible and efficient means of effecting this end. Our sister town, New Iberia
now manifests a laudable desire to become united to Abbeville, by the iron bands
of rail road communication. The short distance, of some twenty odd miles, over a
level, open country with no engineering difficulties to encounter renders the
scheme eminently feasible and perfectly practicable. The horrible
condition of the common roads during ordinary weather, and the actual amount of
travel necessary demand, either a rail road or a graded toll turnpike. Of these
the former is far more the preferable. The immense amount of back country with
its traffic adjacent to Abbeville, certainly presents a strong proof of its
assured financial success. A company with ample capital to build and equip the
road could easily be formed here and in New Iberia. Suitable arrangements could
be effected with Morgan's Rail Road for freight transportation to and from New
Orleans which independent of local freights, would form a handsome revenue. We
intend to agitate this subject from time to time and invite discussion upon the
matter. Our esteemed co[n]temporary the New Iberia Star of the 29th ult.,
has the following remarks to make in regard to it:—

NEW IBERIA TO ABBEVILLE.—Railroad Between those points Connecting the
Bayou Vermilion with the Bayou Teche. The miserable condition of what are
termed public roads must have awakened the people of these two towns and the
intervening country to the necessity for a reliable and rapid means of constant
communication. A large proportion of the present cotton, sugar and molasses
crops are still on the farms because of lack of facilities for transportation.
Persons traveling for pleasure or business—of whom there are many at this season
of the year—have to resort to all manner of expedients in order to get to their
destination, and there is no doubt that another season like the present one
would go far to destroy the business of New Iberia. Nothing more readily
suggests itself than the construction of a branch railroad from New Iberia to
Abbeville. No enterprise could be more commendable or whose success would more
redound to the advantage of our section of country. We have conversed with
several of the planters living along the line of this road and they have assured
us that they will gladly build the road-bed if the merchants of New Iberia will
come down with handsome subscriptions.

The precedent established by our neighbors of Terrebonne and Lafourche,
should incite us to like efforts. We now listen for a voice from the merchants.
Who speaks first?

The Meridional 7-2-1881:

A new era will soon dawn for our Parish, it must soon be called to play an
interesting part in the great work of progress which will inevitably follow the
result of the connection of La., to the Pacific by Rail.

The Parish has been settling up fast since a couple of years by a steady
working class.

Abbeville following the impetus must soon be connected to New Iberia by Rail,
the least of things when one thinks of the great moves of our days.

It has been the hope of our progressive citizens for years to see this road
built, they say that it would be a great benefit to Vermilion and Iberia. The
distance being short and the country through which the road will pass, a level
pra[i]rie, the only stream of any consequence is Petit Anse Bayou, which can
easily be bridged over. We are morally certain that the development of the
resources of our Parish is only a question of time.

Le Meridional 8-27-1881:

[Translated from the French by Gary E. Theall.]

The question of a railroad linking Abbeville to Iberia, has cooled down
considerably. We desire so much to see this improvement made that we cannot
prevent ourselves from dedicating some lines to it from time to time. Residents
of New Iberia, it is to your interest. "The pen is mightier than the sword" is
one of the axioms of the century, you will lose nothing, you will see Vermilion
parish pour its products to you, you have everything to gain, your town is
destined to become the center of the Attakapas country. By working in concert,
by bringing out again the advantages of an iron route, through the voice of the
journals, we will succeed sooner or later in drawing the attention of the
capitalists.

The Meridional 9-17-1881:

What has become of the Railroad from here to New Iberia? Has it all ended in
talk? The road is undoubtedly needed and we think that it is equally certain
that it would prove a paying investment. We may never see it but a railroad will
eventually connect these two places.

Le Meridional 10-22-1881:

[Translated from the French by Gary E. Theall.]

The work advances steadily at the courthouse; it is in the process of being
painted on the North side. Mr. T. Dutel, artist emeritus is working there at
this moment. This building will be the most imposing of the town when they
finish it. We are really delighted with the progress of our little town. All
seems rejuvenated here except the writer. You will see if ten years from now we
do not have a railroad, unfortunately many of us will be sleeping the sleep of
the just and the wicked, under the cold earth, and the shrill cry of the
locomotive will be able to reach only our sad remains.

The Meridional 10-22-1881:

We were pleased to notice in the Sugar Bowl of New Iberia of the 20th
inst., an article in regard to the proposed Railroad from New Iberia to the salt
works, which road when completed to the last place, is to be pushed to
Abbeville. This contemplated road will sooner or later be built, circumstances
require it, why wait for something to turn up. "Procrastination is the thief of
time," the promoters of this movement are men who have arrived at the climax of
life, and, if the thing is allowed to remain at the statu quo they will never
see the dream of their life accomplished before they return to mother earth.

Mr. Gilmore, the editor of the above named paper, one of the most warm
advocates of this scheme, in conjunction with the editor of this paper, gave
birth to this question some nine years ago. It remained dormant for several
years, when it was brought out of its lethargic state and discussed on each side
by parties who plainly see that a great profit for Abbeville and New Iberia will
accrue from the above projected road; but there is something lacking, it is not
the will of those who desire its promotion, but it is the capital! and how are
we to obtain it? we do not know unless northern capitals are called into
requisition. This it seems to us, is not an impossibility, why not form an
incorporated company of sock holders in the town of New Iberia, every share to
be worth say $50.00. Now is the time to keep this question at a red heat, and we
should not let it rest at all until we have accomplished our end. Up then
citizens of Iberia, work to the interest of your community, it is a matter of
great moment to you.

Le Meridional 11-5-1881:

[Translated from the French by Gary E. Theall.]

We notice with pleasure in the issue of 20 October of the Sugar Bowl
of Iberia, an article concerning the railroad proposed to the salt mine, then,
later to be pushed here. We can only praise these gentlemen who have this
enterprise in hand. Look at what the residents of Jeanerette have done. They
have organized into an incorporated society, whose goal is to build the
railroad. The stock of this company is two hundred thousand dollars. They can
increase or diminish the amount of stock. Each person furnishing $50 becomes a
shareholder of it. We well wish that our friends of New Iberia, understanding
that it is in their interest, will be able to make the necessary arrangements to
organize into their center such a similar company.

We are persuaded that a number of persons of our parish would be inclined to
become shareholders of an iron track between Abbeville and the salt mine. We are
pleased to believe that within a year this question will be decided. We see with
pleasure the newspapers of New Iberia take a legitimate interest in it. This is
a question of the greatest pecuniary consideration for that town. It is
necessary that she draw to herself the products of our vast and fertile
prairies, by cutting ahead of the road from Jeanerette. Once the latter is
established it is no longer of interest to New Iberia to occupy itself further
with it; Jeanerette would surpass her, by the fact that the route by the river
would be shortened by this latter road. No more procrastination therefore;
events force you to act, gentlemen citizens of Iberia.

The Meridional 5-27-1882:

It has long been talked of, that a branch from the main Railroad trunk was to
be run to Abbeville, but so far nothing done and certainly no good reasons can
be given for the non-accomplishment of the projected work. The level of the
country is such that the grading and completion of the work would be cheap and
it would certainly pay contractors to engage in the good work; why not on with
it?

Le Meridional 6-3-1882:

[Translated from the French by Gary E. Theall.]

A few words about the projected railroad which will link Abbeville to Iberia.
There is not an inch of earth over this line which is not susceptible to the
cultivation of corn, cotton and sugar cane. There is also an immense extent of
earth on each side, which is being developed with surprising rapidity. There are
there vast ponds or plains, hideouts of aquatic life such as turtles, crawfish,
frogs, etc., these low basins seeming to beg the passers-by to do them the grace
of sowing them with seed. Everywhere that man has made some effort he has been
amply rewarded by the soil. The territory to the East of Abbeville is rich and
fertile; the town is the center of an immense country. Lake Arthur, the basin of
the Queue Tortue, Iles Maronnes, Anse des Mouton, Anse des Broussards, to the
west of the bayou Vermilion, and all the territory between our town and Iberia
will make a commercial center which will compare well even with its more
advanced sisters.

What does this vast extent lack to complete its existence, to make it one of
the premier commercial areas of the west of Louisiana? A railroad, that is all.
A railroad is no longer what it used to be, a business of the state. We would
have been ridiculed fifteen years ago for taking a risk on such land so eagerly,
and there was reason, for the country was unknown, the population was sparse,
all the prairie east of Abbeville was an immense desert, without any resources;
today the perspective is more promising. Our geographic position requires a
railroad—that is why we demand it. We dare to hope that the newspapers of New
Iberia in the interest of their community will second our efforts toward that
goal, we work together in concert and we will have the good fortune to see this
great work realized before closing our eyes.

Le Meridional 10-28-1882:

[Translated from the French by Gary E. Theall.]

The residents of the Prairie Carlin, we are told, are in raptures to think
that perhaps in the course of the next year, there will be at their doors a
railroad; we are assured that they are in agreement to sell very cheaply and
even to give the right of passage over their lands. From New Iberia to the salt
mine, it ought to be completed by the month of January next. From this point to
Abbeville, or from a point closer near the Petite Anse, it will be easy enough
to push the work up to Abbeville in the course of next year. Abbeville will be a
great advantage to New Iberia by all reports.

Le Meridional 11-4-1882:

[Translated from the French by Gary E. Theall.]

We have hope of seeing realized the wishes of the good people of our parish,
concerning the railroad which will unite us with New Iberia. Already an assembly
of notables from the latter region is being held, which has had as a goal to
inform themselves as well as the residents whose lands are situated on the line
which the railroad from Iberia to the salt mine must pass over, of their
disposition to cede the right of passage for it. The accomplishment of the work
would be finished next January;—with that, therefore, the first step of the
great job is accomplished. The shareholders well understand that the task will
not be completed before the road is pushed up to the limits of Abbeville, center
of a country which developed as if by magic a decade ago.

The Meridional 3-24-1883:

We are glad to hear that the citizens of New Iberia are keeping up the
movement about the projected Railroad from the Salt Mine to Abbeville. We hope
that before the close of the present year it will be an accomplished fact. We
have up to the present time been fed on hope; we do not give up the ship
however; we will not rest, until we come out victorious, and then we hope the
public will say to us: Well done good and faithful servant.

The Meridional 4-28-1883:

New Iberia and Salt Mine railroad is to be pushed on to Abbeville as soon as
the right of way is allowed by those living on the proposed line, a survey is
soon to be made.

Le Meridional 5-5-1883:

[Translated from the French by Gary E. Theall.]

If we are to judge by the reports of the newspapers of New Iberia, the
projected railroad which is supposed to link us with that region should begin
soon. It is a work which will be done; it is an absolute necessity, and in the
world we live in, the railroad speculators will not fail to seize the occasion
to monopolize the market of a center where a vast region pours forth its diverse
products.

Le Meridional 5-19-1883:

[Translated from the French by Gary E. Theall.]

Where will the railroad hit Abbeville? Will it follow the upper limits of the
town, or hit the center? This is a question which we do not pretend to resolve.
But all leads to the belief that the line will follow close to the public road
from Grosse Isle.

The Meridional 5-26-1883:

The Railroad committee from New Iberia, it is said will visit our town next
week preparatory to establishing the line between this place and New Iberia.

The Meridional 6-16-1883:

The Rail Road.

We will until we see a better opening drop the question of rail roading from
this place to any other section, we have been blowing this horn long enough to
make a man deaf, and, may be crazy, and we see no good arising therefrom. We
must for the last time until we see a fairer showing give an advice to any and
to all parties interested in this stupendious [sic] scheme; it is this,
that being not able to feel the pulses nor the purses of our parishioners
personally, we invite those who want to reap benefit from them to do it
themselves. A railroad to Broussardville or to Vermilionville would suit us
better than that to New Iberia. In the first place if we are directly connected
to Vermilionville we are put in a more direct communication with the Mississippi
River, that is when the Vermilionville and Port Allen railroad is built and we
hope that the citizens of Lafayette may take the question into their hands and
with the assistance of parties who are willing to risk the chances and with what
little contributions we can throw in, build this road which we have no doubt
will be worth thousands of dollars to that community, as for a bonus we can not
speak for our people, the best way to decide on a question of money, is for such
as stir it up to see for themselves. It is not the province of a country editor
to go around and decide such questions.

The Meridional 7-7-1883:

Railroad to Abbeville seems to have turned out all a hoax and our people are
again doomed to disappointment.

The Meridional 6-14-1884:

Long has it been since, the talk first began of a road between this place and
Avery's Island to connect with Iberia; but as suggested in our last number, we
think that a branch from here to Lafayette, considering the projected road from
the latter point to Baton Rouge, would be as feasible and better paying. Our
people should open their eyes to the importance of such a work and immediately
go to work and see what can be done in that direction.

The Meridional 7-5-1884:

Railroad Meeting?

At the Railroad Meeting held at the Court House in the town of Abbeville on
Saturday, June 28th 1884, the following proceedings were had.

The meeting was called to order by Mr. Jos. T. Labit, who stated that the
nomination for chairman was in order, whereupon Mr. N. C. Young was elected
chairman of the meeting and Mr. G. Godchaux Secretary.

The chairman explained the object of the meeting, to be, to take the
initiatory step for constructing a Railroad from Abbeville to Lafayette, thence
to Baton Rouge, some members of the meeting advocated a Railroad connection with
new Iberia in preference, but a majority seemed to favor Lafayette, after some
discussion it was resolved, two committees, one to confer with the Railroad
authorities of Baton Rouge and Lafayette R. R. Co., to induce them to extend
their road to Abbeville and Vermilion Bay, on which committee the chairman
appointed Messrs. J. T. Labit, Eli Wise, L. Sokolosky, W. B. White and Lastie
Broussard, and the other committee to confer with the people of New Iberia, in
reference to making Railroad with that town, on which committee the chairman
appointed Messrs. Lastie Broussard, W. W. Edwards, W. B. White, O. Bourque and
J. J. Abadie.

On motion of R. C. Smedes, Esq., the chairman of the meeting was added to
both committees, to act as chairman of said committees, with power to call a
general Railroad meeting, whenever he shall deem proper.

On motion of Mr. Smedes, the Publisher of the Meridional be requested to
publish the proceedings of said meeting.

The meeting then adjourned subject to the call of the chairman.

N. C. Young, Chairman.

G. Godchaux, Secty.

Le Meridional 6-6-1885:

[Translated from the French by Gary E. Theall.]

It will soon be fourteen years ago that the Meridional published its first
article on the subject of a railroad. At that time, the immense resources of
Vermilion parish with regard to agriculture was, so to speak, unknown or in a
state of adolescence. The prairies were immense, and the herds of animals grazed
quietly, and each spring furnished its contingent of fatted calves to the New
Orleans market. This traffic brought round sums of money to the raisers of
horned animals. But as in all new countries, they had no outlet for their
various products, cotton, sugar and rice. There was, as in our time, the
Vermilion bayou, but the only boats which furrowed its waters were the schooner
of Capt. Francioni and the Pelican State, a small steamer. Since that time, the
country has become populated, all the great prairies of the lake, of Prairie
Greig, and of the surroundings of Abbeville are comprised of vast fenced
enclosures in which are cultivated the different products of the climate. The
transformation has therefore been immense, and in the winter season from ten to
twelve thousand units of cotton and sugar are transported on the Vermilion bayou
to the landings accessible to boats. If fourteen years ago the necessity of an
iron way linking our town to some point of the Morgan railroad made itself felt,
all the more reason is it necessary when the country has at least doubled its
workers. It is impossible for us to enumerate the advantages with which the
parish would be endowed by the accomplishment of this great work. It suffices
for us to say that the transformation would be immediate. Now it would also be
in the interest of the railroad company to construct this route; never having
been witness to the development which ordinarily follows the construction of
iron ways, we refrain from affirming it. Only, we have the firm conviction that
the company would see its profits augmented in the course of time.

The Meridional 9-26-1885:

A Railroad to This Place.

The question of a railroad from Lafayette to this place is being talked of,
and is much desired by our people. Some portions of our State are sadly in need
of these convenient means of transportation, and it is gratifying to learn that
our people are waking up to the necessity of having them. It was once stated by
a distinguished personage that a railroad laid down in any part of the United
States would be a paying institution, and the truth of his statement is being
fully confirmed by practical experiment.

This section of country, which is sparcely [sic] settled would had we
direct railroad communication with the outside world, soon fill up with an
industrious, agricultural population, whose joint products must find an outlet
to good markets by means of railroad transportation. A railroad from Lafayette
to this point would pay as well, for the same number of miles, as any other road
in the South, for the reason that the soil in this portion of the State is
inexhaustible, and that the yet unoccupied lands of this section must, in the
course of a very few years, be teeming with a population of agricultural and
stock-raising citizens.

This and adjoining parishes are well adapted to grow all the cereals, cotton,
sugar-cane; and the raising of stock is a well established fact, and it only
needs capital and labor to develop their rich soil. This can not be better
accomplished than by having railroads throughout the State, for it is a
well-known fact that these great artificial means of transportation increase and
develop the wealth of a country more than any other method that can be devised,
and when this is done, capitalist[s] will not be slow to profit by the golden
prospects before them in the wide field of a rich and fertile country.

The stock-raising interests of southwestern Louisiana are immense, and her
vast prairies afford an abundance of nutrition the whole year round to myriads
of cattle and horses that graze thereon, and beef of the finest kind is shipped
almost daily to cities east of here. It will only require a few years hence, if
we secure railroad transportation to the great commercial centers, to make this
section a garden spot of our State; and by dividing off our large tracts of land
into farms of various dimensions, according to the wealth of the owners, the
amount of produce that will be raised will be of incalculable benefit to the
world at large. Let us, then, strive to place ourselves in railroad
communication with the outside world, for railroads create and develop the
resources of a country by opening all the avenues to the wealth of its
productions.

The Meridional 11-14-1885:

Mr. J. Henry Putnam, one of our largest sugar planters and most enterprising
citizens, informed us a short time back that there would, without the least
plausible doubt whatever (he is placed in a position to know), be a railroad
built from New Iberia to Abbeville by next spring. Our citizens need and want a
railroad to some eligible point (not on paper, however), whereby they can have
quick transit and direct communication with the outside world, and they want it
as soon as it can be had. We have trade and travel sufficient to justify the
building of a railroad from New Iberia or Lafayette to this place, then why not
commence its erection at once? The early bird, in this connection, will most
undoubtedly catch the worm. Stretch forth, then, some of you that are anxious to
reap the benefit of a golden harvest, and with your briarian arms grasp the rich
prize that is now awaiting your coming. A railroad to this place, from either
direction, will prove a good paying institution; and don't you forget it.

Abbeville Meridional 1-29-1887:

Railroad Meeting at Abbeville.

On Tuesday last a meeting of a considerable number of prominent men of
Vermilion parish met at the court-house in Abbeville to confer with a committee
composed of Messrs. F. M. Welch and G. Sitges, of Jeanerette, who were appointed
by the citizens of Jeanerette to confer with the people of Vermilion parish to
provide means to build a standard gauge railroad from Jeanerette to
Abbeville. The meeting was organized by the election of W. W. Edwards, Esq., as
president, and J. Henry Putnam, Esq., as secretary. Mr. Welch then addressed the
meeting stating the objects of the same and explained the plans for securing the
construction of the road, independently of any railroad corporation from
without. The meeting was also addressed by several other gentlemen, and much
interest manifested on the subject. An executive committee, composed of
influential business men of the parish, was appointed to confer with a like
committee from Jeanerette to canvass the matter and get things in shape for the
organization of a company at home to construct the road with our own capital and
resources. Dr. W. D. White, Messrs. N. C. Young, Martin Bagley, J. Henry Putnam,
Lastie Broussard, Wm. Cade and Jacob Isaacs were appointed on the committee.

Abbeville Meridional 2-19-1887:

The Road from Jeanerette to Abbeville.

A special from Jeanerette, of the 15th, to the New Orleans Picayune
says, parties start out to-morrow to secure the balance of the right of way for
the Jeanerette, Abbeville and Western Railroad. The principal part of the right
of way has already been secured. It is said that the work of surveying and
grading will commence immediately. The projectors of the enterprise are
confident that the 5-mill local tax for ten years will be carried unanimously at
the election March 12. Eastern capitalists have made inquiry into the project
and the question of securing capital for constructing the road is pretty well
settled. The road will open up to settlement one of the richest and most
produ[c]tive sections of Louisiana. The people at Abbeville and along the line
of the road are giving the enterprise every encouragement. They feel confident
that once railroad communication is established the town now only an
unpretentious inland village, will grow to be a town or city of great
importance.

Abbeville Meridional 3-12-1887:

Captain F. M. Welch, who accompanied the railroad surveying party from
Jeanerette to this place, paid us a visit last Monday and said there was not the
least doubt of the road being built between the two points; and he also showed
us a letter from a Philadelphia capitalist, who is interested in the projected
road, stating that he was much encouraged and well satisfied with the present
outlook. Captain Welch also informed us that the people of Jeanerette, almost to
a man, will vote the five mill tax, the election for which takes place there
to-day.

Abbeville Meridional 3-19-1887:

The railroad fever is sure to strike Abbeville. It is coming closer day by
day.

New Orleans Times-Democrat, reprinted Abbeville Meridional 3-26-1887:

Another Louisiana Railroad.

Another town in Louisiana, Jeanerette, has voted a five mill tax toward the
construction of a new railroad, the Abbeville, Jeanerette and Western Railroad,
to run from Jeanerette, on the Southern Pacific, to Abbeville, in Vermilion
parish. To show the interest felt in this matter, the sacrifices that the people
are willing to make and the burdens to bear in order to secure better connection
with the markets of the world, it is only necessary to call attention to the
fact that but thirteen votes were cast against this tax in Jeanerette, and that
when the news came of the result of the election a cannon was fired in honor of
the victory and brass bands rang out a paeon of triumph. As we have said before,
scarcely anywhere else in this country save in the Southwest, is it possible to
secure such ready responses to all demands for assistance from railroads and
such enthusiasm over the voting of a tax. The proposed railroad is not great
one, being merely local to Iberia and Vermilion parishes, but it will be of
great benefit to that portion of the State. Vermilion contains a large area of
fertile and cheap land. It has latterly been attracting immigration and
increasing rapidly in population, but not as fast as it will as soon as this
railroad is built and it is placed in better communication with the rest of the
world.

Abbeville Meridional 4-9-1887:

We learn that grading will be commenced on the Jeanerette, Abbeville and
Western Railroad on the 13th inst., and that the road will be completed to this
place by October 15th. This road will open up a rich country and traverse one of
the most fertile and salubrious portions of the State. We await patiently
further developments.

Abbeville Meridional 4-16-1887:

We are informed that in consequence of the failure of the engineer to put in
an appearance on the day he was expected at Jeanerette, the commencing of
grading the road was postponed from the 13th until some time early next week. In
regard to the depot grounds here our informant says it is impossible for him to
say what place would be the most suitable, as the company will require
sufficient room to make a wharf for boats to land at and erect large warehouses.
He also says that the building of the road from Jeanerette to Abbeville is a
fixed fact, and that all doubts should be cast aside.

Abbeville Meridional 7-16-1887:

Evidently all is not well with the Jeanerette, Abbeville and Western
Railroad. In the official proceedings of the town council of Jeanerette,
published in the Pilot, we read that a motion ordering the issuance of
bonds, by the town, in favor of the road was defeated. Why is this thus?

Abbeville Meridional 9-17-1887:

If we have no railroad to this place it is not because it would not pay to
build one, or that we are not in need of such, but because a few old mossbacks
oppose it.

Abbeville Meridional 11-19-1887:

And now we have it on what may be considered reliable authority that we are
to have a railroad from New Iberia to this place via the Salt Mines.

Abbeville Meridional 11-17-1888:

We have talked railroad to our people until we are sick of it; that is, we
have lost all hopes of seeing Abbeville in possession of anything so desirable;
and as our parish is so greatly in need of the road, we will merely suggest to
our near neighbor, Mr. J. Henry Putnam, of Rose Hill. You have, or will have, a
track some three miles out from the bayou, and as it is only about twelve miles
from there to Avery's salt mine branch, why do you not make the effort to have
the gap filled and thus secure a railroad terminating at your refinery? By so
doing you would build up a town at home which would create surprise, as well as
regret, on the part of our lethargic townsmen.

Abbeville Meridional 6-8-1889:

The Railroad.

The people of Vermilion parish have at last begun to talk railroad. A mass
meeting has been called, resolutions passed, and committees appointed. We are
truly glad to see this evidence of awaking on the part of our sleepers. The
Meridional has for a long time agitated that question, and almost made
itself hoarse trying to be heard on the subject. Now, gentlemen, since the
matter has been carried so far, we do hope you will continue and let us soon
hear the neigh of the iron horse at our depot. A road from the Southwest Pass
through Abbeville and to a connection with the Northwest would open up to this,
one of the most delightful countries in the world, a market for all the fruits,
berries, and vegetables we could raise, and Vermilion would soon become the
"star" parish of the State. Gentlemen, we are in earnest. Please don't let all
your enthusiasm evaporate in gush.

Abbeville Meridional 8-10-1889:

Messrs. Lastie Broussard and N. C. Young left for New Iberia last Thursday
morning to confer with a committee of that place in regard to the railroad to
this place.

Abbeville Meridional 8-17-1889:

A petition signed by four-fifths of the property tax payers of the town was
presented to a special meeting of the council Tuesday evening asking that a
special election be held to vote a four mills tax on the dollar in aid of the
K.C.L.&G.R.R., and a like sum in favor of the New Iberia, Abbeville and Western
R.R., each being to run for ten years. In accordance with the request an
election for the purpose has been ordered to be held at the court house on
Thursday September 26, 1889; polls open at 9 a.m. and close at 4 p.m. First
blood for the railroad.

Abbeville Meridional 8-17-1889:

What a Rail Road Means.

Our people will soon be called upon to tax themselves for ten years in order
to obtain not one but two railroad lines, thus reaching every part
of the parish and uniting it with the whole world by the iron ties of rapid
transportation.

Now, do many of our citizens realize what a railroad through a country means.
Well! In case they should not, we will attempt in a few words, to tell them. It
means progress for all! It means the possibility of establishing central
sugar factories and therefore the success and prosperity of the farmer by the
sale of cane by the ton. It means the facility to make and sell in the
northern markets, secondary products such as Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes,
fruits, strawberries, game, fish and many other things at a renumerative [sic]
rate. It means manufacture, by the facilities afforded for obtaining materials.
It means houses built at cheap rate. It means a great saving in freights. It
means increased travel, therefore more trade. It means a better price for our
cattle. It means a "cotton seed oil mill," in short, it means prosperity!
by the immensely enhanced value of all property. Who will be so blind as not to
see it?

The tax is but temporary. The monies collected will be kept entirely secure.
The benefits will be everlasting, and even were not the companies to execute the
full proposed programme, enough must be by them accomplished, (before they get a
cent) to place our parish in a position beyond compare in Louisiana.

Remember also that the amount for which we may now tax ourselves will in due
time come back to us tenfold while in the meantime we will have gained a hundred
fold in general progress and prosperity. If you are good and progressive
citizens, VOTE THE TAX, and cause others to do likewise. Vermilion Parish
forward and go ahead!

Abbeville Meridional 11-16-1889:

All the railroad petitions, not being in, the Police Jury at its last
meeting, failed to tax [sic; take] any action in regard to ordering the
election for the special tax for the Kansas City, Louisiana and Gulf Railroad.
All persons having petitions are urged to send them in at once.

Abbeville Meridional 11-30-1889:

The Election.

The election, to vote the five mills railroad tax, by the corporation of
Abbeville, was held last Wednesday. Sixty-one freeholders' votes were cast,
being more than the number required to authorize the said tax on the property
inside of the corporation. That means business. Our citizens are alive to
urgency of the time. In this age of progress and railroading, Louisiana is soon
to be checkered by lines. Her resources will soon be developed to its full
extent. Other sections are working studiously to attract the attention of
capitalists. None compare, taking everything into consideration, with our
parish. Here is a soil adapted to the production of all semi-tropical
productions, good land and mild climate, easy access to one of the finest inland
seaport[s] in the world. With these advantages and a wide awake will, we will
surely, in the near future, become a prosperous people. The next step is to
appoint commissioners to canvass the different wards of the parish to emulate
our population to the necessity of voting at the parish election to be ordered
by the Police Jury for the tax.

Abbeville Meridional 3-1-1890:

Doomed!!
Abbeville's Untimely Decease!
The Big Plot Revealed!

While the good people of Abbeville have been moving Heaven and earth in their
efforts to secure the Kansas City, Louisiana and Gulf Railroad, and the three
mills tax subsidy for its benefit, some big railroad schemers have been very
quietly engaged in digging a grave for Abbeville. The hole is now of the right
depth, the coffin is all ready, and when the plan is fully developed the shroud
will be forthcoming to envelop the defunct remains of this once promising town.

All who have tears to shed prepare to drop them now. The procession is about
to start. As the angels of futurity chant their wierd [sic] requiem,
listen and we will tell the brief but harrowing tale of our approaching
calamity.

A party of Northern capitalists have been quietly operating for some time in
this section, securing right of way, monied and landed subsidies to build a
railroad to New Iberia. It is not exaggerating to say they have met with
flattering success. This week they have closed arrangements for a large tract of
land at Perry's Bridge, which will be the terminus of the road. Here they will
lay out a new town, whose waxing splendors shall cause Abbeville to shrivel up
and crumble into nothingness.

Once a road and town are built, the ruin of Abbeville will follow as surely
as the wreck succeeds the storm. Perry's Bridge to-day does no small share of
the commerce of the parish, and once possessed of all the advantages which
obtain with rail communication, we shall behold a new Carthage, and when it has
secured the removal of the seat of justice, the finishing touch of our downfall
will be given, and the crack of the herders' whip will be the only sound to
disturb the vast solitude of the cow pasture occupying the scene of Abbeville's
present bustle and activity!!

So, if our people do not want to get left, they must get a move on themselves
at an early moment.

Abbeville Meridional 3-15-1890:

A rather peculiar looking vehicle came into town this week and everybody
thought it was a sewing machine agent until a little investigation proved it was
the gentleman who is to survey the Abbeville and New Iberia railroad.

Abbeville Meridional 8-9-1890:

Perry's Bridge we are told has out done Abbeville in the way of securing aid
for Kansas City, Louisiana and Gulf Railroad and will scoop in the depot and
terminus, leaving Abbeville out in the wet. The tears are ours gentlemen, hence
we weep.

Abbeville Meridional 12-20-1890:

A petition for a five mill tax for ten years in aid of the New Iberia,
Vermilion and Western railroad is in the hands of W. W. Edwards, Esq., and has
been circulated pretty extensively this week among our citizens. If we expect to
secure this railroad we must be up and doing.

Abbeville Meridional 11-14-1891:

Police Jury on Tuesday passed an ordinance exempting from taxation for a term
of ten years, the Iberia and Vermilion Railroad provided it builds from
Abbeville to a connection with the Southern Pacific.

Abbeville Meridional 11-21-1891:

Rail Road Meeting.

Abbeville, La., Nov. 17, 1891.

On this day pursuant to call a large number of the citizens of Abbeville and
Vermilion parish, including a majority of the railroad Executive Committee, met
at the Courthouse. The meeting was called to order by J. H. Putman [sic],
Esq., who stated the objects of the meeting.

The minutes of the railroad meeting of Nov. 6 were read and adopted. A letter
from the Watkins Banking co, relative to the proposed Watkins extension to
Abbeville, was read and ordered filed.

Letters were read from J. Kruitschnitt, general manager of the Southern
Pacific R. R. to C. J. Edwards, secretary of the committee and to Aug. Erath,
president of the Iberia and Vermilion R. R. stating that the Southern Pacific
would build a railroad to Abbeville, provided the town of Abbeville granted them
a 5 mill tax for ten years, furnished depot site and right of way free of charge
and secured eqemption [sic] of the road from taxation for a period of ten
years.

It was the sense of the meeting that these conditions could be complied with
and on motion the chair appointed a committee of three to make a canvass of the
property tax payers of the town of Abbeville, with petitions praying for a
special election to levy a 5 mills tax for ten years in favor of the Iberia and
Vermilion Rail Road in accordance with the low [sic] governing such
elections.

Messrs. G. Godchaux, J. M. Beauxis and L. Sokoloski were appointed on said
committee.

On motion a committee of three was appointed by the chair to secure by
donation the necessary depot grounds in Abbeville or immediate vicinity thereof
and the right of way through the parish. Messrs. W. W. Edwards, Lastie Broussard
and Dr. W. G. Kibbe were appointed on said committee.

On motion the meeting adjourned subject to call.

J. H. Putnam, Chairman.

C. J. Edwards, Secretary.

Abbeville Meridional 1-30-1892:

The special election last Monday was a grand victory for progressive ideas.
The 5 mill tax for ten years in aid of the Iberia and Vermilion Railroad was
carried by a handsome majority, there being no votes cast against the measure.
There were 69 votes cast representing a property assessment of $84,158.

Abbeville Meridional 2-13-1892:

E. B. Cushing, of the Southern Pacific Railroad Company, accompanied by his
corps of assistants, arrived at New Iberia, Monday and began a survey
immediately of the country between that place and Abbeville, to establish a line
for the New Iberia and Vermilion Railroad, which is to be constructed by the
Southern Pacific Company.

Abbeville Meridional 2-20-1892:

Rail Road Racket.

On Tuesday E. B. Cushing who is in charge of the engineering corps surveying
the proposed extension of the Salt Mine branch to Abbeville, reached town and
made an inspection of sites on the bayou, at Godchaux's, just below town, at Dr.
White's in front of town and at W. W. Edwards and W. A. White just above town.
On Thursday Mr. Dovers one of the engineers ran a line from the latter point on
the bayou and out to the Lafayette road.

In the evening General Manager J. Kruttschnitt, Engineer Cushing, President
[Auguste] Erath of the Iberia and Vermilion railroad, and a party of gentlemen
from New Iberia arrived in town after a reconnoitre of the route. Mr.
Kruttschnitt made a careful examination of the three sites above mentioned and
expressed a decided preference for the one just below town on the Godchaux
place. As the site can not be obtained except by expropriation according to law,
it will take a little time and some money before the question of the depot site
is definitely decided.

Abbeville Meridional 3-19-1892:

The Railroad.

The Engineers have completed the survey of the New Iberia and Abbeville
Branch Railroad, and the Right of way Committee, Messrs W. W. Edwards, Lastie
Broussard, and Dr. W. G. Kibbe, will take the field at once to procure the right
of way. The time for action has now come, and it is the privilege
and the duty, of every citizen to aid this very important enterprise in
every way he can. Every one can do something. Some can give the land for the
Railroad, others can contribute money according to their abilities, to defray
necessary expenses of the Committee. The line of Railroad will pass through
lands owned by minor children in some places, and must be paid for as the law
requires, and money for this purpose. The public spirit and enterprise of every
citizen will now be put to test, and it is hoped and believed that they will not
be found wanting. If the right of way is secured the Railroad to Abbeville is a
certainty. It will be built this summer. There is not a doubt about it. It is
not a probability merely but a certainty. On the other hand if aid is not given
the Right of way Committee the right of way will not be secured[,] the Railroad
will not be built, and the loss and the shame will rest on the heads of those
who refuse to do their plain duty. We think that no man who has any self
respect, would be willing to hereafter be among the number of those who caused
the failure of this great public benefit and convenience, by their refusal to
contribute such aid, as was easily in their power to give. No man we think would
feel confortable [sic], when he reflected that his parsimony was the
cause of such a calamity, as the loss of the Railroad, nor would he like to hear
his neighbors express their opinions on his conduct.

Vermilion Parish now expects every man to do his duty, and we believe they
will and that the advent of the Iron Horse into Abbeville will be one of
the achievement[s] of the year 1892.

Abbeville Meridional 4-9-1892:

The committee on right of way for the Iberia and Vermilion rail road have
been hustling and have met with the most flattering success. So far as Vermilion
is concerned a rail road is no longer a question of doubt, but a certainty.

Abbeville Meridional 4-9-1892:

Prospective investors in land had better decide P.D.Q. Now that the railroad
is assured, the price of land will begin to increase, and a year hence will
bring four or five times the amount it would sell for at present.

Abbeville Meridional 4-30-1892:

Our Railroad.

The line located between Abbeville and New Iberia we believe is as follows:
From New Iberia down the Salt Island Railroad six miles to the Hayes place,
thence a little north of west to Abbeville, 15½ miles to the Bayou Vermilion or
15 miles to the eastern limit of town. Thus the entire distance by rail will be
21½ miles from depot in Abbeville to depot in New Iberia. We are informed that
the committee on obtaining the right of way through Vermilion Parish have
already secured the greater portion of right of way and have deeds for the same.
The committee speak in terms of the highest praise of the people along the line
who have generously donated their land for the good of the public. They have
been more patriotic even than was expected, and have set a good example for
others.

We are told that a very few persons have refused to donate the right of way
in hopes that they may get pay for their land and some of their friends are
advising them not to give, but it is believed by the committee that even these
persons when they consider the matter more seriously and the good the Railroad
will do the country will cheerfully make the desired donation. We will next week
publish a list of names of persons who have generously given the right of way. A
little more delay will occur, in taking the necessary proceedings to obtain the
right of way through lands of minors and then the work will be ready to let to
contract. The construction of this road will bring money into the parish and
enable the farmers along the line who have time to get profitable work with
their teams and to put a little cash in their pockets.

Abbeville Meridional 4-30-1892:

The railroad committee called a meeting of subscribers, last Monday, at the
court house to decide upon the selection of attorneys to conduct expropriation
proceedings for the Iberia and Vermilion Railroad Co.

Abbeville Meridional 6-4-1892:

Aug. Erath, President of the Iberia & Vermilion R. R. Co. was amongst us last
week looking after the interest of the road.

It is to be hoped that the few remaining difficulties in the way of securing
to our town this important commercial necessity will be removed in time to
complete the road this fall. But people who are talking of the certainty of the
road must remember that there yet remains something to be done. About 2¾ miles
of right of way at this end and the depot grounds are yet to be obtained. There
is every indication that this will occur only as the result of a hotly contested
law suit. Mrs. G. Godchaux, the owner of the largest part of the land in
question has determined not to accept the price tendered by the committee, and
has employed able counsel to resist the expropriation proceedings to the bitter
end.

This law suit will consume both time and money in its prosecution, and in the
event of a favorable decision for the railroad a large sum of money may be
required to pay the damages assessed by the court. So we are not out of the
woods yet and it will be wise to wait awhile before we holler.

Abbeville Meridional 6-18-1892:

Gus Godchaux left here last Tuesday morning for New Orleans, where he went to
employ attorneys to defend the expropriation proceedings begun against him by
the Iberia & Vermilion R.R. Co. This promises to be a fierce legal struggle and
one which will be watched with all-absorbing interest from start to finish.

Abbeville Meridional 7-2-1892:

E. B. Cushing, chief engineer of the Southern Pacific Railroad Company
arrived in town Sunday evening and will attend the trial of the expropriation
suits.

Abbeville Meridional 7-2-1892:

Judge O. C. Mouton of Lafayette has been here this week attending court as
counsel for Mrs. Katie Godchaux in the expropriation proceedings brought by the
Iberia and Vermilion railroad company.

Abbeville Meridional 7-2-1892:

Tuesday evening Judge [A. C.] Allen held court in chambers, for the purpose
of trying the railroad expropriation suits. The usual preliminiaries [sic]
having been accomplished the first case was called, that of the Iberia and
Vermilion Railroad Co., vs the Heirs of Dupre Toups. The following jury of
freeholders was empanelled, Wm., Cade, foreman, John Abshire, Jr., Dupre Meyers,
J. M. Beauxis, Nic Broussard, Eli Wise, Amb. Lacour, L. J. Feray, Eraste Mouton,
F. D. Lege, C. D. O'Bryan, and Theolin Landry, Jr. The jury returned a verdict
for $150 for defendants, $77 for the land and $73 damages.

Abbeville Meridional 7-2-1892:

The suit of the Iberia & Vermilion Railroad Co., vs. Mrs. Katie Area and her
husband Gus Godchaux began Thursday before Judge [A. C.] Allen. Judge [W. W.]
Edwards, Lastie Broussard and T. D. Foster appeared for the plaintiff while
Judge Mouton and District Attorney Gordy represented the defendants. A number of
exceptions and motions to quash the venire filed by the defense were tried and
decided adv[e]rsely to the defense. The jury was then duly empanneled and the
case supposed to be ready to go to trial when the defense objected to the
admission of any testimony because the defendant's husband had not been cited.
An inspection of the sheriff's returns and the citation served on Mrs. Godchaux
showed that Mr. Godchaux had not been summoned, and this being a fatal defect
the case was dismissed as in nonsuit.

Abbeville Meridional 7-9-1892:

Rail Road Meeting.

Last Friday evening a number of the citizens of Abbeville who are interested
in securing the building of a railroad to this place assembled at the law office
of Lastie Broussard. The meeting was organized by electing Judge W. W. Edwards,
chairman and O. H. O'Bryan secretary. The situation was fully discussed, and it
was resolved to appoint a ways and means committee to raise the necessary funds
to pay the expenses incurred in the expropriation suits. Messrs. Jos. T. Labit,
Dr. J. T. Abshire, L. O. Broussard, L. Sokoloski and Dr. C. J. Edwards were
appointed as said committee. The ways and means committee met Saturday and chose
Jos. T. Labit, as chairman and Dr. J. T. Abshire, secretary. Several
sub-committees were appointed to carry out the plans of the work more
effectively, and from present indications the required amount of money will be
subscribed in a few days. It would be a terrible calamity to lose the chance of
securing this railroad and we hope every citizen will feel the vital interest
there is in such an important matter and lend a helping hand by subscribing as
liberally as his means will permit.

Abbeville Meridional 7-9-1892:

From present indications the citizens ways and means committee will probably
be able to raise a fund sufficient to purchase the right of way and depot site
of Mrs. Katie Godchaux and the matter will be adjusted amicably and without
delay.

Abbeville Meridional 7-9-1892:

The way[s] and means committee appointed by the citizens railroad meeting of
last Friday have pushed subscriptions with great energy. Messrs. Eli Wise and
Ludwig Sokoloski have especially distinguished themselves in the good work.

Abbeville Meridional 7-9-1892:

The town council held their regular meeting at the Courthouse last Wednesday
evening. In addition to the usual business before the body was an extensively
signed petition from the citizen tax payers of the town asking a donation of two
hundred and fifty dollars towards assisting in securing the building of the
Iberia and Vermilion Railroad. After due discussion and an able presentation of
the matter by Messrs. Jos. T. Labit, W. A. White, W. B. White and others the
council unanimously resolved to appropriate the desired amount $250.

Abbeville Meridional 7-23-1892:

Last Saturday the right of way committee purchased of Mrs. Katie Godchaux for
the Iberia & Vermilion Railroad Company the depot site on the bayou at the lower
edge of town, being the upper portion of the Area place, together with the right
of way from there to the public road for the sum of $1,000. This gives the
company the unbroken right of way from the Bayou Vermilion through the parish to
the Iberia line. A small amount of money yet remains to be raised to pay the
costs incurred in the expropriation suits and other incidental expenses. This
will not require much work we hope.

Abbeville Meridional 8-6-1892:

Speaking of the recent purchase here of the depot grounds for the Iberia &
Vermilion Railroad the St. Mary Banner says:

Iberia's gain is our loss. Had we been up and doing the Franklin & Abbeville
Railroad, would by this time have connected us with the rich prairies of
Vermilion[,] and Franklin instead of New Iberia would have reaped the benefits
of this enormous trade.

Abbeville Meridional 8-6-1892:

The right of way gang of the Iberia & Vermilion Railroad on Tuesday morning
sta[r]ted at the bayou on the Godchaux place and began working eastward to join
the force coming from the Salt Mines branch. The unprecedently copious and long
continued rains are greatly interfering with work on this most important
enterprise.

New Iberia Enterprise, reprinted Abbeville Meridional 8-6-1892:

On Tuesday morning last, ground was broken at the Iberia end of the proposed
branch railroad to Abbeville by August Erath, to whose persistent efforts is
mainly due the successful attainment of a project that has been talked of and
agitated for the past twelve years. From this time on the work of construction
will be pushed with the characteristic energy which moves all matters with which
the great Southern Pacific Railroad Co., is connected, and in about sixty days
the iron horse of progress will be steaming into the quiet town of Abbeville.

Abbeville Meridional 8-13-1892:

First dirt on the Iberia and Vermilion Railroad was broken Monday on the line
of the proposed road where it crosses the White tract about two miles east of
town. The contractors are in camp on the western end of this tract and as soon
as the weather permits will push the grading to a speedy complition [sic].

Abbeville Meridional 8-27-1892:

Work on the railroad has progressed rapidly this week owing to the favorable
weather. The force at this end of the line are now in Godchaux's field.

Abbeville Meridional 9-3-1892:

From the New Iberia Sugar Bowl of Aug. 27 we learn that a large crowd of
Mexicans went out on the works of the Vermilion railroad Sunday afternoon. We
learn that some 250 convicts were also sent to work on this new road during the
week and no doubt the time lost by unfavorable weather will now soon be cought [sic]
up.

Abbeville Meridional 9-24-1892:

E. B. Cushing, chief engineer of the Iberia and Vermilion Railroad was in
town this week and reports that track laying begun [sic] Wednesday on the
east end, and thinks that with fair weather we will see the iron horse here by
the 10th of November. So mote it be!

Abbeville Meridional 10-8-1892:

Work on the railroad grade in this parish is about completed, and only a few
days more will be required to finish up in Iberia then look out for the
locomotive.

Abbeville Meridional 10-15-1892:

Reports have it that the railroad construction gang have crossed the bayou
Petite Anse [near Avery Island] and have completed about 2 miles of track on
this side. The bridge gang had a great deal of trouble in finding a solid
foundation for the piling.

Abbeville Meridional 11-5-1892:

The contractors who were grading the railroad from State street to the bayou
and also the depot grounds and sidings finished up and left last Wednesday.

Abbeville Meridional 11-5-1892:

The construction train and track-laying force are now at work in this parish
near Grand Marais [near Delcambre].

Abbeville Meridional 11-19-1892:

The railroad construction gang are now this side of Grosse Ile woods.

Abbeville Meridional 11-26-1892:

Tuesday morning the whistle of the locomotive of the construction train was
plainly heard in town.

Abbeville Meridional 11-26-1892:

Tuesday morning a lot of carpenters got off of the construction train and
came into town for the purpose of going to work on the Depot Building. But the
lumber having failed to arrive there was nothing for them to do. Consequently
they returned that evening.

Abbeville Meridional 11-26-1892:

Last night the tie gang had reached the east end of the old Area place and
the track layers were not far behind.

Abbeville Meridional 12-3-1892:

Completion of the Railroad.

At last Abbeville enjoys the luxury and advantage of a railroad. The last
spike on the main line of the Iberia and Vermilion Railroad was driven at 10
minutes past 10 o'clock, Tuesday morning, November 29, 1892, and the work train
drawn by Engine 521, with Dick Tanner at the lever backed down to the end of the
track. Ever since a large gang of men have been at work on the main line and
putting down switches and sidings. Of these there will be four.

Wednesday ten cars loaded with lumber for the depot and warehouse arrived and
with it a number of carpenters. Everywhere is a busy scene of activity and the
bustle and rattle of the trains is a welcome novelty to the easy going people of
this delightfully rural town.

The Citizens Railroad Executive Committee met at the courthouse Monday and
appointed a committee to take all necessary steps for celebrating in an
appropriate manner the formal opening of the road for business.

Abbeville Meridional 12-10-1892:

The steam pile driver has been at work this week putting down the wharf at
the railroad depot.

Abbeville Meridional 12-17-1892:

The Celebration.

Thursday, Dec. 15, 1892 is a day which will long be remembered in Abbeville,
marking as it did the inauguration of railroad communication with the outer
world.

A committee headed by Drs. W. D. White and W. G. Kibbe and J. H. Putnam had
tastefully decorated the front of the new depot with cane cotton and rice, in
their natural state, and festoons of Spanish moss. Inside of the building a most
creditable exhibit of the products of the parish had been arranged. Especially
when it is taken into consideration the brief apsen [sic; lapse, span?]
of time, in which it was gotten together.

The stores and business houses closed at 2:30 p.m. and a large portion of the
population of the town gathered at the depot to welcome the special train
containing the South[e]rn Pacific officials and citizens of New Iberia. The
train was due at 3 o'clock but as usually the case on such occasions, it was not
on time, and it was 4:45 when the train composed of two sleepers the Guadaloupe
and Morgan and a coach arrived. The reception committee boarded the train and
escorted Messrs Julius Kruttschnitt president of the I. & V. R. R., and general
manager of the S. P. R. R., J. G. Schreiver, traffic manager; Wm. F. Owens,
superintendent; E. B. Cushing, chief Engineer; A. C. Pickett Vice president of
the I. & V. R. R.; Mayor Koch of New Iberia and a number of other prominent
gentlemen to the depot platform where Mr. Knuttschnitt [sic] was formally
presented to J. H. Putnam ch[a]irman of the Citizens Railroad committee. Mr.
Putnam made an elaborate address of welcome, which was responded to in a few
appropriate remarks by Mr. Knuttschnitt who called upon Robt. F. Broussard of
New Iberia to speak in behalf of the Railroad. Amid salvos of artillery and
screeching of whistles he found the task rather a difficult one, but finally he
obtained a hearing and made a pretty speech.

The representatives of the City press with the officials were shown through
the exhibits and afterwards taken to the Masonic Hall where a banquet had been
spread in the lower hall.

The long looked for, wished for and yea even prayed for event has transpired.
Abbeville at last is the proud possessor of a railroad or to be more correct the
railroad belongs to some one else but we of Abbeville are privileged to use it
and that suits us just about as well as owning it.

On Thursday, December 15, 1892, at 8:30 a.m., the first train pulled out from
the depot on schedule time. It was made up of a combination, car No. 457 and
passenger coach 408, drawn by engine 512 with Joe Hannon in the cab and
conductor Marye in charge, and was to be in New Iberia at 10:40 o'clock, making
the run in 2 hours and 10 minutes.

The stations between here and New Iberia as established at present are Erath
[Note: This is the first mention by the Meridional of a place
called "Erath."], Meadows [Delcambre], Bob Acres, Poufette, Lee, Salt mine
junction. The total distance is 27½ miles and the fare will be 85 cents each
way. Returning trains will leave New Iberia at 3 p.m., arriving here at 5:10.

[Read also Ken Dupuy's description of the
celebration upon the completion of the railroad, and his imaginary
ride on the train from Abbeville to New Iberia.]